GEMS Education
What Is The October Birthstone? A Guide To Opal
May
October’s birthstone opal is special for a number of reasons. From the special meaning this gemstone is thought to have to its gorgeous and unique coloring, which allows it to seamlessly match just about any outfit in your closet, opal is the birthstone you need no matter when you are born.
What is the October Birthstone?
Opal, the October birthstone, is known for its unique myriad of rainbow colors and milky shine. This gemstone’s kaleidoscope of colors is a result of light refraction. Rainwater is absorbed into the gemstone’s structure, and after years of pressure and heat, the water evaporates, and we are left with the gorgeous opals we know today. The unique coloring of opals is thanks to this formation.
October Birthstone Meaning
Every birthstone has a special meaning, and opals are no different. It is thought that ancient Greeks believed that opals had the power to make one psychic, while ancient Romans, as well as many Asian cultures, were thought to associate this gemstone with hope and love, as well as fidelity. Further still, others believed the opal to have healing properties. But that’s not all! Opal is also thought to symbolize creativity.
October Birthstone Color
While opals come in a variety of hues, October’s birthstone is famous for its milky shimmer. This gemstone primarily comes in white, bluish, pink, and golden hues, and looks beautiful set in yellow, white, or rose gold.
Opal Birthstone Color
Just like the falling leaves of the season, opal can be found in multiple colors. From yellow, red, pink, grey, brown, and even black, this gemstone is best known for the milky white option with rainbow shine. The ability of this gemstone to radiate multiple hues is why it is both so special and versatile.
A Brief History of the October Birthstone
The use of opal as a birthstone goes back as far as the 15th century. Known in India as upala, or precious stone in Sanskirt, upala became opalus in Ancient Rome, also meaning precious stone, and leading to the name we know today.
In addition to the ancient Greek and Roman beliefs mentioned earlier, opals have been part of beliefs across the world, with many cultures crediting the gemstone with a variety of powers.
Arabic legends are said to believe the gemstone came from the heavens in the form of lightning. Today, there are those who believe it is unlucky for someone not born in October to sport this gemstone (but we say it’s worth the risk!).
Opals are now primarily found in Australia but have also been discovered throughout the world.
Understanding Opal's Sensitivity and Fragility
This gemstone is as delicate as it is beautiful. Measuring between 5 and 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, out of 10, this delicate nature is thanks to their composition, being made up of up to 21% water, as well as air molecules. Due to their sensitive nature, one should pay extra attention to ensure its longevity.
Practical Tips for Cleaning and Preserving Opal Jewelry
Opals are as delicate as they are unique and beautiful, make sure to follow the tips below to ensure your gemstone stays gorgeous for a long, long time.
- Store separate from other jewelry
- Keep safe from high heat & sudden temperature changes
- Clean using warm, soapy water
- Do not use harsh cleaning methods
- Do not overexpose to water
October Birthstone Jewelry
With its gorgeous hues and beautiful meaning, it is no surprise that October’s birthstone creates breathtaking jewelry.
Opal Birthstone Necklace
Set in icy white gold, this milky white opal is set in a timeless birthstone necklace. Perfect to wear every day but elegant enough for special occasions.
Opal Birthstone Earrings
Featuring beautiful beadwork and dazzling diamonds in a halo design, these opal birthstone earrings glow like a golden sun. Level up your everyday look with these stunners or save them for a special event, they are perfect for both!
Opal Birthstone Ring
This modern ring is as timeless as it is trendy. A row of luminescent opals are set on a yellow gold band, creating a ring that looks spectacular on its own, shines bright when stacked with others, and pairs easily with your other fine jewelry.
What Are the Other October Birthstones?
October actually has two birthstones. In addition to opal, tourmaline joined the family and is considered the more modern birthstone option. Opal being seen as quite feminine, as well as delicate, is thought to be among the reasons the National Association of Jewelers added tourmaline to the list.
Love the look of tourmaline? Check out our collection of pink sapphires!
Tourmaline Birthstone Color
Like opal, tourmaline comes in a rainbow of colors, with some tourmaline gemstones exhibiting multiple hues. The color of the tourmaline birthstone for October is pink.
